Read Subversive Copy Editor, The: Advice From Chicago (Or, How To Negotiate Good Relationships With Your Writers, Your Colleagues, And Yourself) (2009)
Subversive Copy Editor, The: Advice From Chicago (Or, How To Negotiate Good Relationships With Your Writers, Your Colleagues, And Yourself) (2009) - Plot & Excerpts
I never imagined I would read this book the way I read a trashy novel in summer: quickly and raptly. This certainly has something to do with the fact that the topic is so closely tied to the work I do and Saller manages to impart many bits of new knowledge and insights I will immediately apply. But it is more than that. It is her witty and conversational tone that captivated me. (She must also have had an excellent editor.)I highly recommend this for any editor - from the substantive and stylistic to the proofreader - and all those who work in almost any capacity with editors (there is even a chapter for writers). An excellent, thoughtful, and useful read. For a copyeditor or for someone looking to become one, this little book has a wealth of handy information about the work, systems, processes, and people involved in most putting out almost any kind of publication. It is a book about taking the best approach to the inherent problems in the work of copyediting, and how to avoid the common pitfalls. I skipped most of the second half of the book, because I simply don't work at that level of editing anymore, and while I can see the value in the kinds of things the author discusses, they don't need to be read carefully by anyone who does not plan to put them to practical use. The first half of the book, however, provides many general tips that can be used by editor and writers and most levels. I particularly liked her advice on promoting one's edits in an effective manner, avoiding dogmatic approaches to style, and working in a manner that inspires trust in one's authors.
What do You think about Subversive Copy Editor, The: Advice From Chicago (Or, How To Negotiate Good Relationships With Your Writers, Your Colleagues, And Yourself) (2009)?
really useful book! great advice i found myself using at work before i'd even finished the book.
—lulued
The author is one of my colleagues, & she's both principled & witty. What a great combination!
—lsteele
Excellent for anyone interested in copyediting.
—angelteddy74